Who here has gone drastically backwards in salary to start a new career? Advice

 

Who here has gone drastically backward in salary to start a new career?

I work in tech and have made a good salary for the last ten years. It’s driven me kinda insane though. I want to start from the bottom in a career that lets me work outside in nature or something. I’d probably start at minimum wage and never make my current salary again which is between 150k and 200k. Has anyone else made such a drastic change in the past? How do you feel about it now? Honestly I feel dumb posting this but I’m just looking for wisdom in experiences of others in their pursuit of happiness.

Jobadvisor:

You're not alone in wanting to make a drastic career change, even if it means taking a significant pay cut. Many people have successfully transitioned from high-paying jobs to lower-paying careers that align better with their passions and values.

Here are some things to consider as you contemplate this change:

Financial planning:

• Assess your current financial situation: Consider your savings, investments, and any outstanding debts.
• Create a realistic budget: Account for your decreased income and adjust your lifestyle accordingly.
• Explore potential income sources: Consider part-time work, freelancing, or starting a side hustle to supplement your income.
• Build an emergency fund: Having a safety net can provide peace of mind during the transition.

Practical considerations:

• Research your desired career: Learn about the education, training, and certifications required.
• Network with professionals in your target field: Seek advice and mentorship from people who have experience in your desired career path.
• Gain experience: Consider volunteering, internships, or part-time work to gain practical experience in your new field.
• Be prepared for a learning curve: Starting from the bottom means you'll likely need to learn new skills and adapt to a new work environment.

Emotional considerations:

• Embrace the change: Focus on the positive aspects of your decision and the potential for personal growth.
• Accept the challenges: Be prepared for setbacks and disappointments along the way.
• Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your feelings and concerns.

Remember, making a drastic career change is a big decision, but it can be incredibly rewarding. By carefully planning and preparing, you can increase your chances of success and find fulfillment in your new career.

Work from Home is making me Miserable - How to cope?

I started a new job earlier this year and I am finding fully remote work to be so mentally draining. Everyday I feel like I move deeper and deeper into depression from how little human interaction I get. People at my organization are not overly responsive to Teams messages or Emails and the majority of the organization is in office over 5 hours away from where I live. There is no office nearby for me to drive to and work from.

I fully recognize how lucky I am to have this job and how many people would love the flexibility of a fully remote job. I just don’t know how to succeed in this environment. I have applied for other jobs recently but haven’t had much luck given the end of year job market.

Any advice on how to be successful and sane working from home? Any thoughts on making it less lonely? Thank you!

Edit to include:

• I do work out regularly and work out with a training multiple times a week alongside taking group fitness classes.

• I have friends I see and talk to regularly.

• I am happily married to a spouse who works in office most days.

I suspect I just need to find a hybrid job where I can work with people, because despite hobbies, the gym, and deep connections, 9 hours a day being alone is just not good for me.

Thank you all for your thoughts and suggestions! Appreciate you all!

Jobadvisor:

Understanding the Challenge of Remote Work

It's understandable that you're feeling the strain of remote work, even with a supportive network. While many people appreciate the flexibility, the lack of in-person interaction can be challenging. Here are some strategies to help you cope:

1. Structure Your Day:

• Set a Routine: Establish a consistent daily routine, including a specific start and end time.
• Create a Dedicated Workspace: Designate a specific area for work to minimize distractions.
• Take Regular Breaks: Schedule short breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge.

2. Foster Social Connection:

• Virtual Socializing: Use video calls to connect with colleagues and friends.
• Join Online Communities: Participate in online forums or groups related to your interests.
• Schedule Regular Social Outings: Plan in-person activities with friends and family.

3. Improve Communication:

• Proactive Communication: Initiate conversations with colleagues, even if it's just a quick chat.
• Clear and Concise Messages: Ensure your messages are easy to understand and actionable.
• Follow Up: If you don't receive a timely response, politely follow up.

4. Prioritize Mental Health:

• Mindfulness and Meditation:
  Practice mindfulness techniques to reduce stress and anxiety. ¹  
  1. Meditation: A simple, fast way to reduce stress - Mayo Clinic

  

  www.mayoclinic.org
• Seek Professional Help: If you're struggling, consider talking to a therapist or counselor.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Continue your workout routine and ensure you're getting enough sleep.

5. Explore Hybrid Work Options:

• Network: Reach out to your network to explore potential hybrid opportunities.
• Job Search: Continue your job search, focusing on roles that offer a hybrid work arrangement.
• Negotiate with Your Employer: If possible, discuss the possibility of a hybrid work arrangement with your current employer.

Remember, it's okay to feel overwhelmed. By implementing these strategies and seeking support, you can improve your well-being and productivity in a remote work environment.

I interviewed for a job, it went really well. am I am asshole if I accept an offer knowing I plan to leave in 3 months?

The job is at a very high-end assisted living facility. I would be doing enrichment programming. Apparently the facility has been having an extremely hard time finding people to fill these roles and they really want me.

the problem; I am currently under-employed due to it being winter. I love my other job as a camp and canoe guide, and I want to go back to it (probably full time) in the spring/summer.

Am I bad if, knowing this guy is swamped and really needs long-term employees, I accept the job offer knowing I would leave or drastically reduce my hours in only a few months

Jobadvisor:

Yes, accepting a job to leave in a short time frame would be considered unprofessional and unethical. It would be unfair to the employer who is investing time, resources, and training into you, only for you to leave when they need you the most.

Here are some more ethical approaches to consider:

1. Be Honest: If you're certain you'll be leaving in a few months, it's best to be upfront with the potential employer. Explain your situation honestly and let them know your intentions. While this might not guarantee you the job, it shows integrity and respect for their time.
2. Consider a Part-Time Arrangement: If you're open to working part-time, you could propose a solution that benefits both you and the employer. This way, you can continue your current job and contribute to the assisted living facility without fully committing to a long-term position.
3. Delay Your Decision: If you're unsure about your plans, you could delay accepting the offer until you have a clearer idea of your future. This gives you time to weigh your options and make a more informed decision.

Remember, building a strong professional reputation is essential. By being honest and ethical, you'll maintain your integrity and open doors to future opportunities.